Every year Apple releases a major iOS update, and with iOS 26 (launched in September 2025), the list of supported iPhones has shifted.
Some older models have been dropped, while newer ones come with exciting features. If you’re wondering “Does my iPhone run iOS 26?” – this blog post is just for you.
We at Dubai Picks will list all iPhones supporting iOS 26, highlight their key specs, show how you can update, answer common questions, and give a best conclusion about what this all means.
iPhones Supporting iOS 26
As per official sources from Apple, iOS 26 is compatible with iPhones with A13 Bionic chip or newer.
Here are the list of series & models grouped, with release year & best features that gets the brand new iOS 26 features and updates.
Table of Contents
iPhone 17 Series
- iPhone 17 (2025) — latest chip, improved camera sensors, and many of the newest iOS 26 features.
- iPhone 17 Pro (2025) — premium build, better camera hardware, some exclusive features under Apple Intelligence.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max (2025) — larger display, possibly better battery & Pro features.
- iPhone Air (2025) — new lightweight/thinner model with many modern internals.
iPhone 16 Series
- iPhone 16 (2024) — strong chip (A18), better performance over previous generation, supports all core iOS 26 features.
- iPhone 16 Plus (2024) — larger screen and battery version.
- iPhone 16 Pro (2024) — upgraded camera, Pro features, likely better materials.
- iPhone 16 Pro Max (2024) — maximum features in the lineup.
- iPhone 16e (2025) — a variant in the 16 line; shares many internals.
iPhone 15 Series
- iPhone 15 (2023) — modern features, 5G, etc.
- iPhone 15 Plus (2023) — larger battery & screen.
- iPhone 15 Pro (2023) — premium build, more camera/tracking features.
- iPhone 15 Pro Max (2023) — top model with full specs.
iPhone 14 Series
- iPhone 14 (2022) — still strong, supports most iOS 26 core features.
- iPhone 14 Plus (2022) — larger screen version.
- iPhone 14 Pro (2022) — Pro features (e.g. better display, cameras).
- iPhone 14 Pro Max (2022) — premium top model.
Also Check: Best iOS 26 WallPapers for iPhones
iPhone 13 Series
- iPhone 13 (2021) — supports iOS 26, good performance still.
- iPhone 13 mini (2021) — smaller form, same internals.
- iPhone 13 Pro (2021) — enhanced camera, display.
- iPhone 13 Pro Max (2021) — top of 13 series.
iPhone 12 Series
- iPhone 12 (2020) — supports iOS 26, still receives updates.
- iPhone 12 mini (2020) — smaller size.
- iPhone 12 Pro (2020) — better camera & materials.
- iPhone 12 Pro Max (2020) — biggest version of 12 line.
iPhone 11 Series
- iPhone 11 (2019) — baseline support; maybe missing some of the newest “Pro only” features, but core iOS 26 works.
- iPhone 11 Pro (2019) — still solid performance.
- iPhone 11 Pro Max (2019) — large screen, premium build.
iPhone SE Models
- iPhone SE (2nd generation) (2020) — still gets the update, good chip.
- iPhone SE (3rd generation) (2022) — more recent, better internals.
Models That Do Not Support iOS 26
If you are currently using one of these models, unfortunately there is no iOS support for the iPhone which you may consider update to iOS 26 models.
- iPhone XR (2018) — dropped.
- iPhone XS (2018) — dropped.
- iPhone XS Max (2018) — dropped.
How to Update to iOS 26
- Check compatibility — See if your iPhone is in the iOS 26 update list above.
- Backup your data — Use iCloud or connect to a computer and use Finder or iTunes to backup. (optional)
- Plug into power & Wi-Fi — Best to update when battery is full or plugged in and on stable Wi-Fi.
- Go to Settings → General → Software Update — The iOS 26 update should show up if your device is eligible.
- Download & install — Follow prompts. Device will restart. Make sure to keep it connected until done and enjoy the features once the installation done.
Comparison: Full vs Partial Feature Support
| Feature | Newest Models (iPhone 17 / 16 Pro / Pro Max / Air) | Older Compatible Models (iPhone 13 / 14 / 15 / non-Pro / SE) |
|---|---|---|
| Full “Apple Intelligence” / advanced AI features | ✔ Available — newer chipsets (A19, A18 Pro) support more on-device intelligence, better neural cores, more RAM. | ⚠️ Some features limited or absent (less RAM, older processor, weaker neural/hardware accelerators). |
| Camera Upgrades (e.g. 5×/8× optical zoom, pro sensors) | ✔ Yes, Pro/Pro Max models have stronger zoom lenses, better sensors, improved low-light and video modes. | ✔ Basic camera functions good; but zoom capability, sensor size, video features not as advanced. |
| Display and Refresh Rate | ✔ ProMotion (120-Hz), LTPO, higher brightness, refined display tech. | ✖ Older models may lack ProMotion or have lower peak brightness. |
| Battery & Charging Improvements | ✔ Newer versions often have larger batteries, more efficient chips, improved power management. | ⚠ Modest; battery life good but may degrade faster; fewer gains in fast charging or newer charging standards. |
| Future Update Lifespan | ✔ Longest support — you’ll likely get iOS updates, full feature rollouts for several more years. | ✔ They are supported now under iOS 26, but may drop earlier than newest models in future major updates. |
Top 3 Models to Upgrade to if Your Device Is No Longer Supported
If you worried that your iPhone is not in the iOS 26 update list, just leave the worries and you can upgrade to any of these top 3 models and enjoy the best iOS 26 features as well best iPhone experience
- iPhone 16 Pro — offers excellent value: strong camera improvements, the higher refresh display, long support, and many “Pro” features.
- iPhone 17 — if you want something newer, this gives you many modern updates (chipset, display, design), yet with a somewhat more affordable price than Pro Max.
- iPhone SE (3rd generation) — if you prefer smaller phones / lower cost but still want to stay supported; it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles, but you get modern chip performance and future safety.
FAQ on Which iPhones can Run iOS 26:
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Will all features of iOS 26 work on every compatible iPhone?
No. Some advanced features (like under “Apple Intelligence”) are limited to newer models (for example those with more powerful chips)
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Why were iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max dropped?
Because they use older chipsets (A12), which Apple has determined no longer meet the requirements for performance and features in iOS 26.
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Is it safe to update immediately?
For most users yes, especially if your device is compatible. But make sure you’ve backed up your data. Sometimes early updates have bugs; waiting a few days is okay if you depend heavily on your phone.
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Will my iPhone get security updates even if it doesn’t support iOS 26?
Often yes, older devices may still receive security fixes for a time. Apple has done this in past updates. But new feature support will cease.
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Does updating to iOS 26 affect battery life?
There can be some temporary battery drop after update as the system reindexes files, apps upgrade etc. Over time things usually stabilize.
Conclusion
iOS 26 is a big step forward in Apple’s software world — new glass design touches, improved capabilities, and more. If you’ve got any iPhone from iPhone 11 onward, or one of the SE (2nd/3rd gen) models, you’re in luck — your device will get the update.
If you have one of the dropped models like XR or XS, consider whether it’s time to upgrade to enjoy the newest features, smoother performance, and better long-term security.
Got one of the new models? Back up, update, and enjoy iOS 26!